Empower Young Voices is a youth-led initiative enhancing civic engagement and local influence among young people aged 12 to 29, shaping municipal policies through skills-building, participation, and dialogue.
AMPLIFYING YOUTH INFLUENCE LOCALLY
Supported by the Erasmus+ programme through the Youth/Sports National Agency, Empower Young Voices was co-developed with young people to ensure their active role in shaping municipal interventions and decisions affecting their lives. The initiative fosters a stronger sense of community and positions youth as key contributors to local governance. It aims to empower participants with the skills, confidence, and tools needed for civic and political engagement.
FOUR-PILLAR APPROACH TO PARTICIPATION
The project is built around four interlinked components: 360º Skills, a non-formal education programme offering sessions on leadership, media literacy, political structures, and more; Taking Action, where participants design and implement youth sector interventions; Citizen Connection, providing visits to institutions like Parliament and youth associations to foster direct dialogue with decision-makers; and Make Yourself Heard!, the largest youth consultation ever held in Valongo. Through this structure, youth develop practical experience, expand their networks, and challenge stereotypes about civic engagement.
REAL-WORLD IMPACT AND LASTING ENGAGEMENT
By blending training, participation, and direct policy influence, the project pioneers an inclusive model of youth engagement. It reaches underserved groups using digital platforms and builds a sustainable network of young leaders. In total, 22 youth completed the programme’s main components, 200 joined focus groups, and 808 participated in the final youth survey to shape the Municipal Youth Plan. Creative and social events—such as the PhotoInspire contest, Game Night, and a final seminar attended by 201 people—highlighted the project's broad impact, empowering youth to shape their futures and communities.
